When you have a gap in your smile, it can affect how you eat, speak, and feel. Deciding how to replace a missing tooth can be a big decision, and you have a few options to consider.
The choice between a dental bridge and a dental implant depends on your unique health needs, your timeline, and your personal goals. Both are effective ways to restore your smile, but they work in different ways. At Springbank Dental Centre, we want to help you explore what makes each option a good fit for different situations.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A fixed dental bridge is a straightforward way to fill the space left by a missing tooth. It uses the healthy teeth on either side of the gap as anchors for support. These supporting teeth are fitted with crowns, and a false tooth is held between them to complete your smile.
Pros & Cons of a Dental Bridge
The process for a dental bridge is often completed in just a couple of visits. It’s a non-surgical procedure, which can make it a more comfortable option for some people. A bridge also tends to have a lower initial cost.
On the other hand, a bridge requires placing crowns on healthy neighbouring teeth, which alters their structure. Cleaning under the bridge can be tricky and requires special tools. Bridges may also need to be replaced over time.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is designed to replace an entire tooth, from the root up. A small titanium post acts as an artificial root and is placed into your jawbone. After the bone heals around the post, a custom-made crown is attached to give you a strong and natural-looking tooth.
Pros & Cons of a Dental Implant
Dental implants are designed for durability and don’t rely on other teeth for support. They function like your natural teeth and help keep your jawbone healthy. Caring for an implant is usually as simple as brushing and flossing your other teeth.
The implant process does take longer, as it can span several months to allow for proper healing. It is a surgical procedure, and it generally has a higher upfront cost. We can discuss your specific situation to see if this is a suitable path for you.
Bridge vs Implant at a Glance
When you put these two options side by side, it’s easier to see the differences. Thinking about your daily life and hopes for your smile can help guide your decision. Here are a few key points to consider.
Procedure & Timeline
A dental bridge can sometimes be finished in as few as 2 appointments over a couple of weeks. This makes it a faster solution for filling a gap in your smile.
A dental implant journey can be longer. From the initial placement to the final crown, it can take 2–6 months, or longer in complex cases. This timeframe is needed to allow your jawbone to heal securely around the post, which provides the implant with stability.
Longevity & Care
With proper dental care, a dental implant post can last a long time. The crown on top may need to be replaced after many years of use, just like a crown on a natural tooth. Daily care involves simple brushing and flossing.
Bridges typically have a shorter lifespan. To keep the area healthy, you’ll need to use special floss threaders to clean underneath the suspended tooth. This extra step is important for preventing plaque buildup.
Your Budget & Insurance
Dental bridges often come with a lower initial investment. Some dental insurance plans may also cover a portion of the cost for a bridge. We can help you look into what your plan covers.
Implants are a larger investment at the start. However, their longevity can make them a sound financial choice over the long run. We can talk about payment options to help fit the cost into your family’s budget.
How to Choose the Right Option for You
The right choice isn’t the same for everyone. It often comes down to your individual health, lifestyle, and what you want for your smile. We’re here to help you weigh the factors that matter most to you.
Consider Your Overall Health
Because dental implants involve surgery, your general and oral health are important considerations. We may look at your jawbone to determine if it’s strong enough to support an implant.
For those who prefer to avoid surgery, a bridge is a non-surgical alternative. It can achieve a great result without the longer healing time. This can be a better fit for some health situations.
Amount of Teeth Missing
If you are missing a single tooth, either a bridge or an implant could be a good option. The decision might come down to other factors, like cost or your personal preference. Both can restore your smile beautifully.
For multiple missing teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge may be an option. This combines the strength of implants with the coverage of a bridge. We can explore all the possibilities for restoring a larger area.
Your Personal Comfort & Goals
Ultimately, your comfort is a top priority. Do you prefer a quicker process, or is a long-term solution that feels like a natural tooth more important? There is no wrong answer—this choice is about what works for you and your family.
Thinking about your goals for your smile helps clarify the decision. We can discuss your daily routine and what you hope to achieve. This conversation helps us find the solution that fits your life.
Talk to Your Dentist
Choosing between a dental bridge and an implant is a personal journey, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Springbank Dental Centre, we take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. We want you to feel confident and informed about your dental care.
We can look at your specific needs and walk you through each option in a clear, easy-to-understand way. As your family’s dentist in SW Calgary, our goal is to help you find a solution that supports your health and lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a conversation about your smile.
